This month, the first major London revival of Mel Brooks' comedy musical since 2004 opens at the Garrick Theatre, where it plays following a sold-out premiere at the Menier Chocolate Factory last year. We caught up with Harry Morrison, who has previously starred in Come From Away and Half a Sixpence in the West End, to find out more.
Harry Morrison. Headshot provided by production.
1. What was your first encounter with The Producers?
I remember watching the original film with Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder. I think I was about 15 and all-in on a Wilder rabbit-hole, after watching Haunted Honeymoon (with Gilda Radner and Dom Deluise, great film…watch it)
2. Tell us about your character Franz. What is the best part about playing him?
I’ve always been drawn to characters who are, frankly, a bit of a mess. I don’t know why I relate… I love to explore what makes them nuts and then figure out how to ground them in reality (and then maybe push it a little...) Franz is wonderful, because he’s a war-warped psychopath rediscovering his childhood dream of being in show business. What’s not to like...?
3. For those who don’t know much about The Producers - can you tell us a little bit about it?
Sure! It follows washed-up impresario, Max Bialystock, and his feeble yet wide-eyed accountant, Leo Bloom, who realise they can make more money by producing a flop than a hit. So they set out to mount the most cataclysmic and offensive theatrical spectacle to ever reach the stage.
4. This production is incredibly popular with audiences - why do you think that is?
I think people are attracted to the irreverence of the humour. Mel Brooks describes The Producers as an ‘equal-opportunity offender’, and I think audiences are craving that a little (especially at the moment). It reminds us not to take life too seriously, and to learn to laugh at ourselves. That and the pigeons. People love the pigeons.
5. The Producers is a show jam-packed with satire and slapstick. How do you approach the comedy in your role so that it keeps it fresh every time?
Mel Brooks writes comedy that’s like music. You learn it and figure out the staging (and the stunts). Then the rest is play. Comedy (to me) is supposed to feel alive, a little bit dangerous and rebellious, so the playing bit is SO important. And when you get to do that with people like Andy and Marc… Well. Job done.
6. What’s your favourite musical number from the show?
Springtime For Hitler brings the house down every night without fail. It’s a spectacular smorgasbord of comedy and musical bliss. Selfishly, performing Haben Sie Gehört das Deutche Band is probably the most fun I’ve ever had on a stage.
7. If you could play another character in the show, who would you like to play and why?
I had the complete joy of playing Max for about 10 performances in the initial run at the Chocolate Factory. That was a big bucket-list tick for me; I mean, it’s the Hamlet of Musical Theatre, ain’t it?! But holy cripes I’ve never been so exhausted (and sweaty). Over to you Andy, take the reins.
8. Finally, why should people come and watch The Producers?
Come and watch The Producers to remind yourself how much better life is when you’re laughing more. And above all. Come see the pigeons. Coo.
The Producers is currently playing at the Garrick Theatre until 21 February 2026.
